Title

When Company Comes

Scripture
And when we had come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.
(Acts 21:17)
Devotional
Hospitality is a godly trait. The apostle Paul instructed the Romans that they are to, “Be given to hospitality.” This we are to do not only in our homes, but in our communities, businesses, and above all churches. When guests visit our homes, they should be treated with respect, honor, and generosity. At the very least a seat and beverage are to be offered. Not only offered, but offered hoping that they would accept. The same applies to business. Every customer is a guest. They are to be served. They are not there for you or your employees. You and your employees are there for them. Furthermore, never judge a customer by their appearance. Appearance can be very deceiving. They may be shabby on the outside but ready on the inside. Above all, every guest to your church is to be treated as either a brother in the Lord or a potential brother. Give them the best, even if it happens to be your pew. You just might be entertaining angels unaware.
Thought For The Night
“In an era when many of us feel that time is our scarcest resource, hospitality falters… ‘In a fast-food culture,’ a wise Benedictine monk observes, ‘you have to remind yourself that some things cannot be done quickly. Hospitality takes time.’” Dorothy C. Bass, quoted in “Reflections,” Christianity Today (6-19-00)
Evening Text
Acts 21:17: And when we had come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.
 
Looking for Answers
 
Evening Study Guide
Defining: “Hospitality”: “The act or practice of receiving and entertaining strangers or guests without reward, or with kind and generous liberality,” Noah Webster’s 1828 dictionary
 
Referencing: “Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God,” 1 Peter 4:9-10.
 
Applying: Make your home hospitable (presentably clean) and then invite people into it and practice hospitality.